Exchange rates and fees
How close the exchange rate is to the mid-market rate, and which fees apply to transfers and card use.
Money & banking · 32 guides
Money & banking abroad.
Until this title launches, its guides live on GlobalCitizen.guide — the short answer first, then the detail.
Arthur's summary · Money & banking abroad.
Money & banking in three points
- Exchange rates and fees. How close the exchange rate is to the mid-market rate, and which fees apply to transfers and card use.
- Licence and deposit protection. Whether the provider holds a full banking licence with deposit guarantee, or is an e-money institution that safeguards funds.
- Opening from abroad. Whether you can open the account remotely, and which proof of address and residence is accepted.
Bank accounts abroad
Money transfers and currency
- What is the cheapest way to transfer money internationally?
- How do Wise, Revolut and traditional banks compare on fees?
- What is a SWIFT transfer and when do I need it?
- How do I send my salary from abroad to Germany?
- What is the best way to pay in a foreign currency?
- How do I avoid currency exchange fees?
Pensions and retirement
Credit history and financial identity
How we rate
The same criteria for every provider. Ratings and order are never for sale.
Licence and deposit protection
Whether the provider holds a full banking licence with deposit guarantee, or is an e-money institution that safeguards funds.
Opening from abroad
Whether you can open the account remotely, and which proof of address and residence is accepted.
Cards and cash
Card acceptance, free ATM withdrawals and limits when travelling.
Transfers and local rails
Speed and cost of SEPA, SWIFT and local payment networks, plus local account details.
Warning signs
- “No fee” transfers where the cost sits in the exchange rate
- Accounts that can be closed when you change your country of residence
- Unclear difference between a bank deposit and safeguarded e-money